Instrumental oriented albums are not a new feature in the Metal and Rock world. It's an usual form that became popular in the end of the 80's, when guitarists appeared unleashing a blend of Classic Music, Metal/Rock and (in many cases) gigantic egos. But there are albums that aren't orientated for guitar players, but to mere mortals, and DAVE GROEWER - REBIRTH is one of them, as the album "Dark Island" is here to show.

First of all, it's not a neoclassic guitar orientated album, but a blend between German Power Metal with touches of Prog Metal. And if someone is looking for guitar shreds and the ultimate technical playing, it's better to look for it on another album, for the musical insight of "Dark Island" is guided by a sober instrumental playing along charming melodies that are easy to be understood even for a child. And the album is really very good in the way it is, with some eclectic touches in many parts (and the AOR melodies on "Survivors"). The production made a great work on the album. Yes, the sound quality of "Dark Island" is clean in a way that every little musical arrangement can be heard without problems, but the musical weight is amazing as well. And the instrumental tunes are sounding in a modern way. It's a piece of art in many ways.

In a way that seduces the listener, "Mystery" with its charming melodies, the modern vibe shown on "Crashed" (fine guitar duets), the introspective moments of "Survivors" (but be prepared for a monumental weight imposed by bass guitar and drums), the good mix between adrenaline energy and classic melodies of "Into the Jungle", the heavy weight of "Hurricane" (the song chosen for the official video for divulgation of the album), the pure feeling of melancholy shown on "Waves of Sorrow", and the mix of tender melodies with some aggressiveness on "Lost" are the samples of a very good musical work. It reminds me of the atmosphere of instrumental albums where songs were more important that the musician egos.

Maybe "Dark Island" can't reach every Metal fan in the world, but the ones who hear it will love the work of DAVE GROEWER - REBIRTH.